Libya criticizes Greece over hydrocarbon tender ahead of minister’s visit

Tensions have emerged in Greek-Libyan relations just days before Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis is scheduled to visit Libya with Tripoli issuing a strong statement accusing Greece of violating its sovereign rights.

The Libyan Government of National Unity said it was following “with intense concern” a recent Greek announcement inviting international bids for hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation in maritime areas south of Crete, some of which Libya claims fall within disputed waters.

In its statement, the Libyan Foreign Ministry called the move a “clear violation” of Libya’s sovereignty and expressed firm opposition to any activities in the contested zones without a prior legal agreement in line with international law.

Tripoli reiterated its commitment to peaceful cooperation in the Mediterranean, warning that unilateral actions only fuel tensions.

It urged Athens to act responsibly, respect historical ties, and pursue dialogue as the only viable path toward lasting, lawful solutions, “based on the rules of International Law and the safeguarding of the interests of all parties.”

A memorandum of understanding signed in 2019 between Turkey and Libya’s Government of National Unity in Tripoli delineates maritime boundaries granting Libya and Turkey access to a vast economic zone in the Mediterranean.

The illegal deal has been widely criticized by Greece, Cyprus, Egypt and the rival Libyan government in Tobruk, which does not recognize the Government of National Unity’s authority. 

Sources from the Ministry of Environment and Energy responded to the Libyan Foreign Ministry, saying that “Greece is actively exercising its sovereign rights with steadfast commitment to international law and the law of the sea.”

“The Greek government does not abandon dialogue, but always within the framework of international legality,” the sources added.

This story has been updated.